Do you use an iPhone or iPad? If so, you’ll want to update your operating system software as soon as possible to avoid a newly-discovered security vulnerability.
The vulnerability, announced this morning by security researchers, allows iPhones and iPads to be hijacked remotely. A hijacked device could be used to spy on its owner by using the camera and microphone to record activity, logging messages and calls and tracking the device’s location.
But you can steer clear of this: Apple has already released a patched version of its mobile operating system, iOS 9.3.5 which fixes the vulnerability.
How to update
Update straight from your device by going to Settings > General > Software Update. The latest update, 9.3.5, should be available there if your device was already up to date. If not, you may need to install 9.3.4 or earlier first.
Staying safe: be cautious about links
The vulnerability was discovered when a user received a text message from an unknown number inviting him to click on a link. The link led to a website which would download spyware onto a mobile device and circumvent its security measures.
The vulnerability becomes a problem when you allow spyware to be installed – so don’t let that happen. As always:
- Be cautious of text messages and emails from unfamiliar senders, or that you’re not expecting.
- Pay attention to things such as spelling and grammar issues – they’re usually a good clue that something is amiss.
- Don’t click on links unless you’re confident about the sender’s identity.